Konnichiwa! Are you interested in learning how to say “next week” in Japanese? Great! In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to express this phrase. Japanese, like any language, has different variations, but we will focus on the standard and widely used expressions. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Next Week”
When it comes to formal situations, such as speaking to your boss, colleagues, or seniors, it’s essential to use polite language. In Japanese, a common phrase for “next week” in formal settings is:
raishu
The term “raishu” is a straightforward expression that means “next week” in Japanese. It is widely accepted in formal contexts, and you can confidently use it during business meetings, official conversations, or when talking to unfamiliar individuals. Now, let’s explore the informal ways to say “next week” in Japanese.
Informal Ways to Say “Next Week”
When conversing with friends, family, or people of the same age group, you can use more casual language. Here are a few informal ways to say “next week” in Japanese:
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rai shuu
Similar to the formal expression “raishu,” this phrase simply drops the long “i” sound, making it sound more casual. It’s widely used among friends and acquaintances, especially when planning meetups or discussing personal schedules.
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kondo no shuu
This phrase literally translates to “this week’s.” Although it might seem counterintuitive, Japanese speakers often use this expression to refer to the week after the current one. While it might initially confuse learners, it’s a popular and perfectly acceptable way to talk about “next week” in informal settings.
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jikai no shuu
Similar to the previous phrase, “jikai no shuu” translates to “the week after this.” This is another informal and convenient way to refer to “next week” when you’re in a more relaxed environment.
Regional Variations
Japanese, like many languages, has dialectal variations across different regions. These variations can include unique ways to express “next week.” While it’s helpful to be aware of these variations, it’s important to note that the standard phrases we discussed earlier will be universally understood throughout Japan. Nevertheless, here are a few regional expressions you may encounter:
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Kanto Region:
In the Kanto region, which includes Tokyo, the phrase “raishu” is prevalent, just like the standard expression we covered earlier. Stick to this widely understood term to avoid confusion.
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Kansai Region:
If you find yourself in the Kansai region, including cities like Osaka and Kyoto, you might hear locals use the phrase “tsugi no shuu.” This phrase, meaning “the following week,” is commonly used in everyday conversations in the area.
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Hokkaido Region:
In Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, people often use the expression “yugata no shuu.” While it’s less common in other regions, it’s still understood throughout Japan thanks to its widespread use in literature and media.
Tips for Mastering Usage
To become more proficient in using these expressions, here are a few tips and examples to help you communicate effectively:
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Always consider the context: When in doubt, opt for the formal expression “raishu.” It’s better to be polite, especially when talking with someone you don’t know very well.
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Practice pronunciation: Pay attention to the long and short vowel sounds in Japanese. Pronounce “raishu” with a clear and distinct “rai” followed by a short “shu” sound.
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Combine with other phrases: Experiment by combining these expressions with other commonly used phrases. For example, you can say “kondo no shuu ni aimashou” to mean “Let’s meet next week!”
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Listen and mimic native speakers: Watch Japanese shows, listen to podcasts, or have conversations with native speakers to further refine your language skills. Immersion is a fantastic way to absorb natural language nuances.
Now that you have a good understanding of how to express “next week” in Japanese formally and informally, it’s time to practice. Don’t be afraid to use these phrases in your conversations and enjoy learning more about the beautiful Japanese language and culture. Ganbatte kudasai! (Good luck!)
